The term 'Neurodevelopment' is about the way a person’s brain develops. This includes the way they experience the world, how they think and process information, and how they communicate and behave. There are lots of variations in how people develop, and sometimes this difference can lead to a diagnosis such as Autism, Intellectual Disability or ADHD.
Diagnostic criteria for neurodevelopmental conditions focus on what a person can’t do, or can’t do as well. Neurodiversity on the other hand emphasises the need to look at all aspects of how a person thinks, not just what they find hard – many neurodivergent people have strengths neurotypical people do not have, and vice versa. It also highlights that neurodiversity is a part of diversity, and that like other forms of diversity, neurodiversity should be included and respected. On this website we will use the terminology above. We will also use a mix of person first (e.g. “they have ADHD”) and identify first (e.g. “they are autistic”) language. We advise seeking to understand and respect the preference of people you know in person.
This page has been created by professionals working with children, young people and adults with a range of neurodevelopmental differences and conditions, and with input with neurodivergent people. You can read more about the language and terminology we use here. You can find further information about neurodevelopmental differences, and sources of information and support on the pages below. You can also find further information on mental health and wellbeing on NHS Fife’s Moodcafe website, and access to resources, pre-recorded workshops, and online and in-person groups via NHS Fife’s Access Therapies Website.